The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has added
an IPv6 nameserver address to the Internet's DNS root server system, a move
that promises to solve the possible shortage of IP addresses.

IPv6 , or Internet Protocol next generation (IPng) , is
designed to overcome the shortcomings of IPv4 by adding
tightened security and improvements for routing and networking
auto-configuration. IPv4 has been in use for almost 30 years and cannot
support emerging requirements for address space, mobility and security in
peer-to-peer networking.

With IPv6, which supports a 128-bit address space (instead of IPv4's
32-bit), the stage is set for many more devices to be uniquely addressed as
the Internet continues to grow. It also expands into new types of devices
that can be assigned with IP addresses, like telephones or even motor
vehicles.

"By taking this significant step forward in the transition to IPv6, ICANN
is supporting the innovations through which the Internet evolves to meet the
growing needs of a global economy," the non-profit group said in a statement
announcing IPv6 support.

In the beginning, IPv6 support will be implemented for Japan's (.JP) and
Korea's (.KR) country codes. Next up, ICANN plans to implement the new
protocol for France (.FR) before it approves other country codes.